TWO DAYS LATERAfter Theo gave his benefactors the name of the candidate he believed the Hales were supporting, they wasted no time.Nathan Cole was suddenly under intense scrutiny.Within forty-eight hours, his campaign was in ruins.Nathan Cole became the talk of the entire state.Every major media network was reporting on him."Breaking news! Nathan Cole, a gubernatorial candidate, has been placed under investigation for alleged smuggling and drug-related offenses."One reporter announced.Another commentator argued."How is it that he's only being caught now? It's suspicious.""Suspicious or not, we cannot allow a criminal to become our governor."Another voice argued.Then came another report."Nathan Cole has been linked to evidence involving containers allegedly used to smuggle illegal substances through the sea port."The accusations spread rapidly.Within hours, public opinion began turning against him."Nathan Cole does not deserve our vote. He lied to us. He deceived us, pr

Finally, Christmas Eve arrived, bringing double the celebration to the country. A new president had been elected, a new governor had taken office, and the most beautiful time of the year was upon them.Lights illuminated streets and buildings. Christmas trees stood proudly behind shop windows, their branches decorated with sparkling ornaments, while familiar melodies filled the air.In San Francisco, the streets grew busier with each passing day. Performers filled the main roads, entertaining crowds with music, dance, and theatrical displays. People gathered to watch, cheer, and celebrate together.For a little while, it almost seemed as though the city had forgotten the drama, rivalries, and scandals that had plagued it throughout the year.And on Christmas Eve, there was one event the people of San Francisco looked forward to more than any other.The Eve Gala.It was the most beloved event hosted by the Hale family, a tradition established by the late Tessa Hale and preserved by the

"Elsa, are you okay?"Sara's concerned voice pulled Elsa from her thoughts."That's why she seemed so familiar! I've seen her before. Jada, that's Nessa! Don't you remember?"Jada frowned."Tessa, don't—""Look at the picture closely!" Elsa insisted.Jada studied her face. Elsa wasn't joking. She was genuinely convinced that the woman in the photograph was someone they had encountered before.Slowly, Jada turned back to the image still displayed on the screen.Then she gasped."Now that you mention it, she does have a striking resemblance to... Nessa. But..."She trailed off, unable to finish her sentence."Will the two of you please explain what you mean?"Elsa suddenly remembered that Sara was still standing beside them, waiting for an explanation. She turned towards her, then glanced across the room at Leonard, Levi, and the other members of the Hale family.Finally, she looked at Jada.Jada understood immediately."It's nothing," she said, forcing a smile. "We just met someone who

That same day, Elsa and Jada drove through the rural neighbourhood, keeping their eyes on the streets as they approached the house where Nessa, Lisa, and Anna were staying.They hadn't seen them ever once she did a test for Anna.Jada slowed the car and parked some distance away, choosing a spot where the expensive vehicle wouldn't immediately attract attention.For a moment, neither woman moved.Then Jada turned towards Elsa."So, what's the plan?"Elsa continued studying the street."I remember how we got inside last time. We'll go in together and pretend we're checking on Anna."Jada stared at her."That's the plan?""We'll ask a few questions, see how Anna is doing, and, if we get the opportunity, collect a hair sample from Nessa."Jada's mouth fell open."Oh, my God.""Hey, hey." Elsa turned towards her. "Don't start groaning now. We'll be in and out before anyone notices.""That's exactly what you said the last time!""And we made it out, didn't we?""By a miracle!"Elsa gave he